There were three generations of Trooper, 1981–1991, 1992–1997 and 1998–2005, after which Isuzu ceased exporting the model. It began production as a rather basic and somewhat underpowered on- and off-road vehicle, offered only with 4 cylinder motor, 5 speed manual transmission, and part-time four-wheel drive. The first generation evolved to add both amenities and luxuries, including optional air-conditioning, power windows, and a more powerful V6 engine. The second generation was more refined yet, available in two-wheel drive as well as four.

First generation (1981–1991)

The first generation Trooper was available as a three- or five-door, with a solid 4.555:1 rear axle and an independent front suspension. In the Japanese market the car was originally introduced as the "Isuzu Rodeo Bighorn", but the "Rodeo" part of the name was soon dropped. Early engines included a 2.0-liter gasoline and a 2.2-liter diesel, lightly powered even by early 1980s standards for the vehicle's empty weight. The four-wheel drive system was engaged by operating a three-position shifter adjacent to the transmission shifter. Both Aisin manual-locking and...Read More